Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in International Falls. Falls International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of INL:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by Taxi/Rideshare, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into International Falls from INL
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Taxi/Rideshare | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Taxi/Rideshare is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Storing Your Luggage at Falls International Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at INL may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in International Falls’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Quick budget math for your International Falls layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$9 |
| Meal | ~$18 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$37 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What to See and Do in International Falls
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In International Falls, two standouts are:
- Smokey Bear Park — Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy.
- Koochiching County Historical Museum — Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at INL, check out Comfortable Waiting Area & Wi-Fi or Aircraft Observation Windows to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
In International Falls
If you make it into town, Border Bar and Grill is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Grandma’s Kitchen.
Inside INL
If you’re staying in the terminal, INL Airport Concessions is your main option. Vending Machine Refreshments works too if you want something quick.
Staying Connected
WiFi at INL should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in United States and you’re good to go.
Sleep & Lounge Options at INL
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, INL has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in International Falls exploring the streets or relaxing at INL, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.